Dementia Counselling in Leicester

Photo of Vanessa Owens - @thecounsellingcoach, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
@thecounsellingcoach
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Leicester LE9
I have 30 years experience of working with people with Autism and intellectual disability, and dementia.
Hi I'm Vanessa. I'm an Integrative Counsellor this means I offer all modes of therapy, making it tailor made to you, and as individual as you are. I have 30 years of experience in the NHS, Public Sector, Charities and latterly private practice. I specialise in working with Grief, Autism, Learning disabilities, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, Anxiety, Motivation, Confidence, Relationships, Self care strategies. I can help you understand and work with your thoughts and emotions, in mind and body. I work in a creative way often using a variety of tools to visualise where you are presently and develop some skills to move forward.
I have 30 years experience of working with people with Autism and intellectual disability, and dementia.
Hi I'm Vanessa. I'm an Integrative Counsellor this means I offer all modes of therapy, making it tailor made to you, and as individual as you are. I have 30 years of experience in the NHS, Public Sector, Charities and latterly private practice. I specialise in working with Grief, Autism, Learning disabilities, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, Anxiety, Motivation, Confidence, Relationships, Self care strategies. I can help you understand and work with your thoughts and emotions, in mind and body. I work in a creative way often using a variety of tools to visualise where you are presently and develop some skills to move forward.
0116 478 6725 View 0116 478 6725
Photo of Raksha Patel, MBACP, Counsellor
Raksha Patel
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leicester LE2
Hi, I am a fully qualified Counsellor/Psychotherapist and a Clinical supervisor based in Oadby. I am also a trainee Supervisor. Sometimes we can all feel overwhelmed and struggle in life. Experiences can often cause strong feelings of anger, fear or pain and by talking and understanding your individual situation you can begin to lessen the pain. Counselling can help you to manage the anxiety, anger and any other emotions you may be experiencing, by working together we can look at areas that you would like to work on, to enable you to find ways of coping.
Hi, I am a fully qualified Counsellor/Psychotherapist and a Clinical supervisor based in Oadby. I am also a trainee Supervisor. Sometimes we can all feel overwhelmed and struggle in life. Experiences can often cause strong feelings of anger, fear or pain and by talking and understanding your individual situation you can begin to lessen the pain. Counselling can help you to manage the anxiety, anger and any other emotions you may be experiencing, by working together we can look at areas that you would like to work on, to enable you to find ways of coping.
0116 478 2891 View 0116 478 2891
Photo of Jo Flynn, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Jo Flynn
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leicester LE1
If you are reading this I wonder if life feels difficult at the moment. Perhaps you are feeling anxious, depressed, living with the distress of uncertainty? Finding it difficult to let go of control, of perfectionism, feeling vulnerable or struggling with living in a ‘never enough’ world? Is this having a negative effect on your relationships, or are you struggling to understand traumatic events in your past, and you can no longer soldier on as before? However you may be feeling, it can feel really scary to come and talk to a counsellor. But I respect your courage to reach out, and I will listen to you with warmth and empathy.
If you are reading this I wonder if life feels difficult at the moment. Perhaps you are feeling anxious, depressed, living with the distress of uncertainty? Finding it difficult to let go of control, of perfectionism, feeling vulnerable or struggling with living in a ‘never enough’ world? Is this having a negative effect on your relationships, or are you struggling to understand traumatic events in your past, and you can no longer soldier on as before? However you may be feeling, it can feel really scary to come and talk to a counsellor. But I respect your courage to reach out, and I will listen to you with warmth and empathy.
07570 923142 View 07570 923142
Photo of Richard Murray, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Richard Murray
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leicester LE4
It can be really tough to actually talk about what is going on for you. Sometimes we feel shame or fear at the prospect of sharing these feelings. Sometimes there just aren't words for those feelings. I offer a space in which whatever you wish to talk about is fine. I am not easily shocked! Our time spent together will involve creating a safe space in which you can explore whatever it is that you want or need. I like to hold a space where I embrace that everybody is unique and that nobody is "perfect." I also understand the drive to achieve that perfection and how difficult it can be balancing the two.
It can be really tough to actually talk about what is going on for you. Sometimes we feel shame or fear at the prospect of sharing these feelings. Sometimes there just aren't words for those feelings. I offer a space in which whatever you wish to talk about is fine. I am not easily shocked! Our time spent together will involve creating a safe space in which you can explore whatever it is that you want or need. I like to hold a space where I embrace that everybody is unique and that nobody is "perfect." I also understand the drive to achieve that perfection and how difficult it can be balancing the two.
0116 497 6823 View 0116 497 6823
Photo of Candice Faye O'Neil, MSc, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Candice Faye O'Neil
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Leicester LE1
Hi, I'm Candice. I'm a qualified and highly experienced Counsellor & Psychotherapist and final year Counselling Psychology Doctoral student. I offer skilled and compassionate therapy services centred around increasing your sense of agency, awareness and autonomy. I am most skilled in supporting individuals who have experienced childhood trauma. However, I am also skilled and experienced in supporting everyday challenges to complex and enduring difficulties using evidence based practises. My therapeutic approach is directed towards developing your awareness and self knowledge to facilitate your ability to accept or change and adapt.
Hi, I'm Candice. I'm a qualified and highly experienced Counsellor & Psychotherapist and final year Counselling Psychology Doctoral student. I offer skilled and compassionate therapy services centred around increasing your sense of agency, awareness and autonomy. I am most skilled in supporting individuals who have experienced childhood trauma. However, I am also skilled and experienced in supporting everyday challenges to complex and enduring difficulties using evidence based practises. My therapeutic approach is directed towards developing your awareness and self knowledge to facilitate your ability to accept or change and adapt.
01509 273774 View 01509 273774
Photo of Nicky Alexis Daly, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Nicky Alexis Daly
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leicester LE1
Are you struggling with difficult feelings such as fear, depression, anxiety, stress, grief, anger? Do you feel like you are going around in circles and can't see a light at the end of the tunnel? Taking that step to ask for help can be a frightening one, but it can also be them beginning of stepping out of that circle and finding a different perspective. My name is Nicky Daly and I work in a counselling/psychotherapy practice, just 3 minutes drive from J23 of the M1. As a practise we offer short and long term therapy for individuals, couples and children. We have over 30 years experience supporting people in distress.
Are you struggling with difficult feelings such as fear, depression, anxiety, stress, grief, anger? Do you feel like you are going around in circles and can't see a light at the end of the tunnel? Taking that step to ask for help can be a frightening one, but it can also be them beginning of stepping out of that circle and finding a different perspective. My name is Nicky Daly and I work in a counselling/psychotherapy practice, just 3 minutes drive from J23 of the M1. As a practise we offer short and long term therapy for individuals, couples and children. We have over 30 years experience supporting people in distress.
07581 747542 View 07581 747542
Photo of Coral Dawn - Coral Dawn Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Coral Dawn Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leicester LE1  (Online Only)
I'm a person centred counsellor. I work online, telephone or zoom, whichever you prefer, I find both effective. If you enter counselling with me, you will be encouraged to bring your issues, and the sessions are led by you. It might feel like you wish someone to sort out your problems, but you will be helped to explore your feelings, beliefs and behaviour, so you become more self-aware. You are the expert on yourself because nobody else knows what it is like to be you. In our counselling sessions, you will be provided with a safe, confidential space to explore your feelings and problems.
I'm a person centred counsellor. I work online, telephone or zoom, whichever you prefer, I find both effective. If you enter counselling with me, you will be encouraged to bring your issues, and the sessions are led by you. It might feel like you wish someone to sort out your problems, but you will be helped to explore your feelings, beliefs and behaviour, so you become more self-aware. You are the expert on yourself because nobody else knows what it is like to be you. In our counselling sessions, you will be provided with a safe, confidential space to explore your feelings and problems.
01780 438660 View 01780 438660
Photo of Dr Charlie Tyack, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Charlie Tyack
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leicester LE1
Hi, I'm looking forward to hearing from you! I want to hear your concerns and support you to work towards the things that are most important in your life. I feel that therapy should happen in a friendly, nurturing space in which you feel safe and comfortable to bring anything you want to talk about and work on. I usually suggest exercises and other resources to complete in between sessions in order to keep the work progressing. As an Accredited EMDR Therapist as well as a clinical psychologist, I am able to use the therapy approach most appropriate for your concerns.
Hi, I'm looking forward to hearing from you! I want to hear your concerns and support you to work towards the things that are most important in your life. I feel that therapy should happen in a friendly, nurturing space in which you feel safe and comfortable to bring anything you want to talk about and work on. I usually suggest exercises and other resources to complete in between sessions in order to keep the work progressing. As an Accredited EMDR Therapist as well as a clinical psychologist, I am able to use the therapy approach most appropriate for your concerns.
0115 697 2259 View 0115 697 2259
Photo of Lauren Sayers - Serendipity Psychology Services Ltd, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Serendipity Psychology Services Ltd
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Leicester LE1
Serendipity Psychology is a team of professionally registered, highly qualified psychologists, psychotherapists, counsellors and occupational therapists working across Northamptonshire, Milton Keynes, Leicestershire, Coventry & Warwickshire and many other areas of the UK. Our team aspire to deliver exceptional, personalised psychological treatment and care throughout the time you need us. We offer a range of specialist support and pathways of care, including a neurodivergence pathway for the assessment and support of ASD and ADHD, and a lower-fee pathway for those who may struggle to access independent therapy because of the cost.
Serendipity Psychology is a team of professionally registered, highly qualified psychologists, psychotherapists, counsellors and occupational therapists working across Northamptonshire, Milton Keynes, Leicestershire, Coventry & Warwickshire and many other areas of the UK. Our team aspire to deliver exceptional, personalised psychological treatment and care throughout the time you need us. We offer a range of specialist support and pathways of care, including a neurodivergence pathway for the assessment and support of ASD and ADHD, and a lower-fee pathway for those who may struggle to access independent therapy because of the cost.
01538 712306 View 01538 712306
Photo of Heather Petcher, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Heather Petcher
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Leicester LE1  (Online Only)
At the heart of my practice is the emphasis on building a warm, safe and empathic therapeutic relationship based on acceptance and trust within a non judgemental and nurturing environment. I offer a safe space for you to explore your emotions to what is happening, or what has happened in your life and how this is affecting you in the present. I believe you are the expert of you and have all the capabilities to find your own way through your problems with my support, to build confidence within and facilitate personal growth.
At the heart of my practice is the emphasis on building a warm, safe and empathic therapeutic relationship based on acceptance and trust within a non judgemental and nurturing environment. I offer a safe space for you to explore your emotions to what is happening, or what has happened in your life and how this is affecting you in the present. I believe you are the expert of you and have all the capabilities to find your own way through your problems with my support, to build confidence within and facilitate personal growth.
0115 647 7173 View 0115 647 7173

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr Navi Nagra, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Navi Nagra
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London NW9  (Online Only)
I have the following specialties: Living with physical health changes, neurodegenerative conditions such as dementia and adjustment to carer/supporting roles.
Hi there, thank you for visiting my page and taking the first step in exploring support. My name is Dr Navi Nagra and I am a qualified Clinical Psychologist with over 11 years experience working across different ages, health conditions and settings e.g. community work, clinics, hospitals etc. I currently work with the NHS, leading psychology work within Ageing and Mental Health as well as dementia services. My approaches to support are multi-level with precedence given to our cultural context and histories to help co create roads of change. 'Make the model fit the person NOT the person fit the model' is my motto.
I have the following specialties: Living with physical health changes, neurodegenerative conditions such as dementia and adjustment to carer/supporting roles.
Hi there, thank you for visiting my page and taking the first step in exploring support. My name is Dr Navi Nagra and I am a qualified Clinical Psychologist with over 11 years experience working across different ages, health conditions and settings e.g. community work, clinics, hospitals etc. I currently work with the NHS, leading psychology work within Ageing and Mental Health as well as dementia services. My approaches to support are multi-level with precedence given to our cultural context and histories to help co create roads of change. 'Make the model fit the person NOT the person fit the model' is my motto.
020 3002 7293 View 020 3002 7293
Photo of Dr Jenny Lisshammar, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Jenny Lisshammar
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oxford OX1
I am experienced at adapting therapy to be accessible to those with additional cognitive needs, such as after a brain injury or stroke, or in the context of dementia.
I am a HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist and a BABCP-accredited cognitive and behavioural (CBT) psychotherapist. I also hold foundation-level accreditation in Systemic Family Therapy. Alongside my private practice, I have worked in the NHS since 2019. I work with adults and adolescents with all forms of psychological difficulties, including in the context of cognitive impairment and neurodiversity. My approach to psychological therapy is person-centered; the client is the expert on their experiences, and is supported to actively shape therapy in the way that will best help them to safely and actively achieve their goals.
I am experienced at adapting therapy to be accessible to those with additional cognitive needs, such as after a brain injury or stroke, or in the context of dementia.
I am a HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist and a BABCP-accredited cognitive and behavioural (CBT) psychotherapist. I also hold foundation-level accreditation in Systemic Family Therapy. Alongside my private practice, I have worked in the NHS since 2019. I work with adults and adolescents with all forms of psychological difficulties, including in the context of cognitive impairment and neurodiversity. My approach to psychological therapy is person-centered; the client is the expert on their experiences, and is supported to actively shape therapy in the way that will best help them to safely and actively achieve their goals.
01865 587276 View 01865 587276
Photo of Dr Lisa Paul, PhD, BACP, Psychotherapist
Dr Lisa Paul
Psychotherapist, PhD, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester CH1
Hi, I'm Lisa and I am a person-centred therapist. I initially trained as a psychologist but more recently I qualified as a counsellor and psychotherapist. I have worked with a variety of issues, including mental health problems, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, dementia, and learning disabilities amongst others. Often there might be a combination of several difficulties which is impacting upon someone, and I am experienced in working with people where there are more complex issues.
Hi, I'm Lisa and I am a person-centred therapist. I initially trained as a psychologist but more recently I qualified as a counsellor and psychotherapist. I have worked with a variety of issues, including mental health problems, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, dementia, and learning disabilities amongst others. Often there might be a combination of several difficulties which is impacting upon someone, and I am experienced in working with people where there are more complex issues.
01244 667281 View 01244 667281
Photo of Annette Moore, MBACP, Counsellor
Annette Moore
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swindon SN4
I specialise in working with young adults, carers and people affected by dementia.
If now is the right time to talk about something that is troubling you, please contact me. It may be that you are struggling with feelings of anxiety and low mood. Perhaps you have experienced loss or trauma and need to talk about this or maybe you just need to make some changes in your life. I understand that this step is not always an easy one, but I will listen without judgement and offer a safe, supportive environment to enable you to talk freely. Talking together can help to clarify things and find a way through. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and life stages, from young adulthood through to later life.
I specialise in working with young adults, carers and people affected by dementia.
If now is the right time to talk about something that is troubling you, please contact me. It may be that you are struggling with feelings of anxiety and low mood. Perhaps you have experienced loss or trauma and need to talk about this or maybe you just need to make some changes in your life. I understand that this step is not always an easy one, but I will listen without judgement and offer a safe, supportive environment to enable you to talk freely. Talking together can help to clarify things and find a way through. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and life stages, from young adulthood through to later life.
01249 477733 View 01249 477733
Photo of Dr Rachael Staniec. Clinical Psychologist. Dclinpsy, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Rachael Staniec. Clinical Psychologist. Dclinpsy
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG22  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Dr Rachael Staniec, an experienced Clinical Psychologist with a special focus in perinatal, postpartum, adult and older adults' mental health. I've worked with people experiencing emotional distress & mental health difficulties for over 14 years in the NHS, where I dedicated myself to understanding and supporting individuals through some of life's most pivotal stages: pregnancy, adulthood and the transitions into later life.
Hi, I'm Dr Rachael Staniec, an experienced Clinical Psychologist with a special focus in perinatal, postpartum, adult and older adults' mental health. I've worked with people experiencing emotional distress & mental health difficulties for over 14 years in the NHS, where I dedicated myself to understanding and supporting individuals through some of life's most pivotal stages: pregnancy, adulthood and the transitions into later life.
0115 647 3368 View 0115 647 3368
Photo of Dr Jinnie Ooi, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Jinnie Ooi
Psychologist, CPsychol
Verified Verified
London N2
I have experience working in the NHS supporting children, families and adults living with a range of physical health conditions including: chronic pain and/or fatigue, cancer, diabetes, cardiac conditions, and neurological conditions (stroke, dementia, epilepsy).
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist specialising in physical health conditions. If you are finding aspects of life challenging due to living with a health condition or you are supporting a loved one living with a health condition, I may be able to support you. Starting therapy can feel rather daunting. This is why I offer a warm and compassionate approach in working with your difficulties together. I offer brief and targeted therapy focused on developing coping skills to enable you to live a meaningful life alongside the health condition. I can also support you with your wellbeing if you do not live with a health condition.
I have experience working in the NHS supporting children, families and adults living with a range of physical health conditions including: chronic pain and/or fatigue, cancer, diabetes, cardiac conditions, and neurological conditions (stroke, dementia, epilepsy).
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist specialising in physical health conditions. If you are finding aspects of life challenging due to living with a health condition or you are supporting a loved one living with a health condition, I may be able to support you. Starting therapy can feel rather daunting. This is why I offer a warm and compassionate approach in working with your difficulties together. I offer brief and targeted therapy focused on developing coping skills to enable you to live a meaningful life alongside the health condition. I can also support you with your wellbeing if you do not live with a health condition.
View
Photo of Emma Catherine Coyle, MA, BACP, Psychotherapist
Emma Catherine Coyle
Psychotherapist, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
Stansted CM24
I have specialist experience in working with clients affected by dementia and Alzheimers (themselves, family members and/or carers).
I aim to instil an overall sense of mental wellbeing and health; to help clients work through past traumas by showing them a different, more positive way of understanding them; and to free individuals from long held anxieties so they can maintain better relationships and live a happier life. Alongside Private Practice, I work for the NHS as the Health and Wellbeing Practitioner at the Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridgeshire, offering onsite counselling to staff members. Prior to re-training as a Counsellor, I worked for 14 years in the Financial Sector and so have plenty of knowledge and understanding of the Corporate world.
I have specialist experience in working with clients affected by dementia and Alzheimers (themselves, family members and/or carers).
I aim to instil an overall sense of mental wellbeing and health; to help clients work through past traumas by showing them a different, more positive way of understanding them; and to free individuals from long held anxieties so they can maintain better relationships and live a happier life. Alongside Private Practice, I work for the NHS as the Health and Wellbeing Practitioner at the Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridgeshire, offering onsite counselling to staff members. Prior to re-training as a Counsellor, I worked for 14 years in the Financial Sector and so have plenty of knowledge and understanding of the Corporate world.
07588 727030 View 07588 727030
Photo of Dr Ilan Ben-Zion, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Ilan Ben-Zion
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N3
Hi, I’m Ilan! I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Director of The Oak Tree Practice. I want to tell you a bit more about myself, as I realise selecting a psychologist can be a tough task! I feel very privileged to be able to say I love what I do and always have, ever since I started volunteering for ChildLine in 2007. Following this, I’ve had experience working with a wide variety of clients including children, young people, adults, older adults, military personnel, individuals with learning disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders and neurological conditions. I have also furthered my studies through the completion of undergraduate, masters and doctoral degrees. All this aside, one of the most important parts of my work is building relationships with those sitting opposite me. I have always believed that you can have all the training and knowledge in the world, but if the client doesn’t return, none of this can be put into action. Therefore, my first aim is always to provide a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental space where we can work on the clients’ difficulties together.
Hi, I’m Ilan! I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Director of The Oak Tree Practice. I want to tell you a bit more about myself, as I realise selecting a psychologist can be a tough task! I feel very privileged to be able to say I love what I do and always have, ever since I started volunteering for ChildLine in 2007. Following this, I’ve had experience working with a wide variety of clients including children, young people, adults, older adults, military personnel, individuals with learning disabilities, neurodevelopmental disorders and neurological conditions. I have also furthered my studies through the completion of undergraduate, masters and doctoral degrees. All this aside, one of the most important parts of my work is building relationships with those sitting opposite me. I have always believed that you can have all the training and knowledge in the world, but if the client doesn’t return, none of this can be put into action. Therefore, my first aim is always to provide a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental space where we can work on the clients’ difficulties together.
020 3974 2820 View 020 3974 2820
Photo of Lucy Hughes - Mantle Psychology, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Mantle Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Holmfirth HD9
At Mantle Psychology we work with you to help you understand your mental health difficulties, develop a picture of why they might be happening, and help you to improve your wellbeing. Having the time and space to explore your difficulties can be very beneficial and we aim to provide you with the most appropriate intervention to meet your needs. We can work with young people, families, adults, and older adults. We treat all mental health problems and we see everyone as an individual with their own unique circumstances and difficulties, and will use the most appropriate psychological therapy based on your goals.
At Mantle Psychology we work with you to help you understand your mental health difficulties, develop a picture of why they might be happening, and help you to improve your wellbeing. Having the time and space to explore your difficulties can be very beneficial and we aim to provide you with the most appropriate intervention to meet your needs. We can work with young people, families, adults, and older adults. We treat all mental health problems and we see everyone as an individual with their own unique circumstances and difficulties, and will use the most appropriate psychological therapy based on your goals.
01484 240639 View 01484 240639
Photo of Saziye Ryan, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Saziye Ryan
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Kenilworth CV8
I am a BABCP accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist working from my consulting rooms in centre of Kenilworth and also online. Having worked over 20 years within the NHS, in a wide range of mental health field, I’m very experienced in treating many complex mental health/psychological disorders. I work with a variety of age groups including: older adults, adults, adolescents and children suffering from anxiety disorders trauma, depression and other psychological disorders.
I am a BABCP accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist working from my consulting rooms in centre of Kenilworth and also online. Having worked over 20 years within the NHS, in a wide range of mental health field, I’m very experienced in treating many complex mental health/psychological disorders. I work with a variety of age groups including: older adults, adults, adolescents and children suffering from anxiety disorders trauma, depression and other psychological disorders.
01842 771102 View 01842 771102

See more therapy options for Leicester

Dementia Counsellors

Can dementia patients benefit from counselling?

Dementia patients can often benefit significantly from counselling. While neurologists typically treat dementia itself, counsellors provide crucial emotional support for patients and their families. Therapists specializing in dementia can help clients navigate aging, end-of-life issues, social isolation, sleep challenges, and grief. They can also assist clients in adapting to the disease by addressing caregiving concerns and supporting family members. Counsellors will often also collaborate with a patient's neurologist or other medical providers to manage dementia symptoms and medication needs.

How can you tell if someone has dementia or Alzheimer's?

To determine if someone has dementia or Alzheimer's disease, there are several signs and diagnostic methods that medical professionals use. Early signs of dementia often include memory loss, difficulty with problem-solving, and challenges in completing familiar tasks. Diagnosing dementia or Alzheimer's requires a comprehensive approach, as there is no single definitive test, and initial diagnosis can sometimes be difficult as symptoms tend to worsen progressively over time. To make a diagnosis, medical professionals typically use a combination of methods, including standardized questionnaires and cognitive tests to assess memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, psychiatric evaluations to understand mental health status, brain scans to look for physical changes in the brain, as well as other medical tests to rule out other conditions.

What are the first-line treatment options for Alzheimer’s disease?

There is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, but catching the disease in its early-to-moderate phases can be beneficial in order to initiate first-line treatments to help manage symptoms. Medications such as galantamine, rivastigmine, and donepezil are examples of cholinesterase inhibitors that are commonly prescribed for Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, working with a therapist or social worker can also often help patients with the disease address common behavioural and lifestyle concerns, such as anxiety, depression, irritability, sleep problems, social support, and housing changes.

When to seek treatment for Alzheimer’s?

It’s best to seek treatment at the first signs of Alzheimer's. Early warning signs of Alzheimer’s include memory problems, such as forgetting appointments or directions, as well as trouble concentrating, paying attention, retrieving words, and carrying out daily household tasks. An early diagnosis can help people slow the progression of the disease with medication and plan for the future in terms of housing, social/caregiving support, and finances.